The Miami Dolphins placed quarterback Tua Tagovailoa on injured reserve following a concussion he sustained in their recent game against the Buffalo Bills. According to NFL rules, Tagovailoa must miss at least four games while on injured reserve, though there is no specific timeline for his return as the team prioritizes his health.
This marks the third concussion in Tagovailoa’s NFL career, leading to concerns about his long-term health. Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel initially delayed the IR decision, waiting for further evaluations before making the move official on Tuesday.
In response to Tagovailoa’s absence, the Dolphins signed quarterback Tyler Huntley from the Baltimore Ravens’ practice squad. NFL regulations require the Dolphins to keep Huntley on their active roster for at least three games.
McDaniel explained that this move is about ensuring depth at the quarterback position, especially given the uncertainty around Tagovailoa’s recovery timeline. McDaniel emphasized that the signing was not a reflection of third-year quarterback Skylar Thompson’s ability, but rather a precautionary measure to maintain depth.
Skylar Thompson, who started three games as a rookie in 2022, will now take over as the Dolphins’ starting quarterback for their upcoming game against the Seattle Seahawks.
Thompson did not play during the 2023 season but is stepping in following Tagovailoa’s injury. Despite the addition of Huntley, McDaniel reiterated that Thompson remains the starter, with Huntley serving as additional backup. Huntley, who has 10 career starts and was named to the Pro Bowl in 2022, brings experience to the quarterback room.
Tagovailoa’s injury occurred during a scramble when he collided with Bills safety Damar Hamlin, resulting in immediate and concerning symptoms, including a fencing response. Although he walked off the field under his own power, medical professionals ruled him out for the remainder of the game.
The injury adds to a growing list of games Tagovailoa has missed due to injury, bringing his total to 14 games since 2020. His long-term availability remains uncertain as the Dolphins monitor his health closely.
In addition to the quarterback moves, the Dolphins also made other roster adjustments. On the same day as Tagovailoa’s placement on injured reserve, the team signed offensive lineman Jackson Carman to their practice squad and released wide receiver Robbie Chosen. These moves reflect ongoing roster management as Miami navigates the challenges posed by injuries and the need to maintain competitive depth.
